Lawrence Holly

Ed attended West Branch Public School, graduating in the class of 1952. He was a good student, liked by both teachers and classmates. During high school years, he was part of a successful competitive debate team. He also played the saxophone in the high school band and orchestra. His favorite sport was tennis, in which he excelled.

Other growing up sporting activities were hunting and fishing with his dad and two brothers. Deer hunting was especially looked forward to as were spring fishing trips to their cabin in Ontario, Canada. Weather permitting, weekend picnics at various locations were regularly enjoyed. Quite often friends were welcome to come along.

Following graduation from high school, Ed worked at different jobs, including the Coca Cola Company in West Branch and the General Motors Parts Plant in Saginaw. Early in 1957 he joined the Michigan State Police. His first assignment as a trooper was at the Jonesville Post in Hillsdale County. While there, he met and married the love of his life, Barbara J. Sharitt in a beautiful ceremony at the United Methodist Church in Hillsdale. Thereafter, due to Ed’s work assignments, the couple lived in Hillsdale, Flint, Traverse City, Erie, East Lansing, Lansing, Greenville, and again in Traverse City. While in Flint, Ed attended Flint Community College. Later while in Greenville, he was assigned the responsibility of opening a new post at the neighboring town of Lakeview and became the first Post Commander there. He also became a member of the Greenville Rotary Club and a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association (NRA).

In the fall of 1977, Ed was again promoted and became the Assistant District Commander of the 7th State Police District. This involved supervisory responsibilities over the eight posts of the 7th District. He retired in 1987, ending his 30 years in the Michigan State Police, one of the finest police departments in the nation. Thereafter, he worked part time another 20 years for a local Traverse City company.

Returning to Traverse City the second time gave Barb and Ed the pleasure of renewing several old friendships. They also became long time members of Faith Reformed Church where they participated in several church related activities.

The funeral service will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 11 am with visitation beginning one hour prior at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. All are invited to stay for a luncheon and then burial will follow at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Salvation Army. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories and condolences.